Spending Money on St Helena Island: Cash or Card? Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
One of the most frequently asked questions from travelers planning a visit to St Helena Island is:
“Can I use my credit or debit card on the island?”
The answer isn’t straightforward, and because St Helena is a remote island in the South Atlantic with limited banking infrastructure, it’s incredibly important to plan how you’ll spend money before you arrive.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about money on St Helena Island, including:
Whether you can use international debit or credit cards
Where and how to access cash
How the Bank of St Helena Tourist Card works
Tips for paying for taxis, tours, meals, and more
Let’s dive in so you can explore this amazing destination with confidence — and avoid any awkward payment mishaps!
Card Payments are limited
Paying by Mastercard, Visa, is limited on St Helena Island
Can I Use My International Debit or Credit Card on St Helena?
Let’s get straight to it: international debit and credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) are NOT widely accepted on the island for in-person transactions.
St Helena does not have POS (Point of Sale) systems that accept foreign-issued bank cards in shops, restaurants, accommodations, or other local businesses. There are also no ATMs, so you won’t be able to withdraw cash using your bank card once on the island.
However, there are one or two shops that does accept international payments via Tap & pay.
This can be a surprise for many travelers, especially those used to contactless or card payments being the norm. But don’t worry — there are reliable and easy solutions, especially if you plan ahead.
Solution: The Bank of St Helena Tourist Card
To help visitors, the Bank of St Helena offers a digital solution called the Tourist Card — a virtual prepaid card designed specifically for travelers to the island.
What is the Tourist Card?
The Tourist Card is a secure, virtual debit-style card that allows you to make purchases on St Helena via a mobile app. You pre-load it with funds before or during your trip and use it to pay at participating businesses across the island.
It’s the closest thing to using a regular debit card on St Helena — and it’s widely accepted.
✅ Features of the Tourist Card:
Works through a secure mobile app (available for iOS and Android)
Use it at restaurants, accommodation providers, gift shops, and some tour operators
Pre-load with funds via bank transfer or international debit/credit card before arrival
Track your balance and spending from your phone
No local bank account required
You can apply online from abroad and start using it as soon as it's set up and funded. For full info, visit the official Bank of St Helena Tourist Card page here.
📝 How to Apply for the Tourist Card
The application process is simple and can be completed online:
Visit the official Tourist Card webpage: Bank of St Helena - Tourist Card
Fill in the online application form with your personal details and travel dates.
Once your application is processed, you’ll be given instructions to:
Download the Tourist Card App
Activate your account
Top up your virtual card with funds using a debit/credit card or bank transfer
💡 Tip: Submit your application 1–2 weeks before your trip to allow enough time for setup and testing.
Can I Just Use Cash Instead?
Absolutely — and in some cases, it’s even preferred.
St Helena uses the St Helena Pound (SHP), which is pegged 1:1 to the British Pound Sterling (GBP).
CASH IS KING
At the moment, but St Helena businesses are slowly moving towards cashless for certain services.
Here’s what you need to know about cash on St Helena:
British Pounds (GBP) are accepted everywhere — especially English banknotes.
Change is usually given in SHP, especially if you pay in GBP.
Small denominations are very handy — especially for taxis, tips, or small vendors.
No ATMs for foreign bank cards, so bring what you need in cash before you arrive.
Exchanging Currency on St Helena
If you arrive by ship and have Euros, Dollars etc, you can exchange it for SHP at the Bank of St Helena branch in Jamestown.
British coins and notes are accepted and exchangeable.
Scottish and Northern Irish notes may not be recognized, so it’s best to bring English notes only.
You won’t find currency exchange services like you would in larger countries — no Travelex or Western Union.
And remember: you can’t withdraw cash using your international card at ATMs — because there aren’t any ATM’s But can withdraw from cards at the Bank OF St Helena.
🚕 How to Pay for Taxis, Tours, and Local Services
Most local taxi drivers, tour guides, and small vendors do not accept card payments, so you’ll want to have cash on hand for:
Taxi rides
Private or group tours
Museum entry fees
Local crafts and souvenirs
Tips and gratuities
Some larger tour operators may offer prepayment options via bank transfer or PayPal, especially if you book in advance. Be sure to check with your provider before arrival.
The Tourist Card is gradually being adopted by more service providers — but it’s always smart to ask in advance if it’s accepted.
Summary: How to Prepare for Money Matters on St Helena
Here’s a quick checklist to help you prepare:
✅ Apply for the Bank of St Helena Tourist Card online
✅ Load your card with enough funds for digital payments
✅ Bring GBP cash in small denominations
✅ Exchange any foreign to SHP at the Bank in Jamestown if needed
✅ Check with your accommodation and tour operators about accepted payment methods
✅ Don’t rely on your Visa or Mastercard — they won’t work in most places
🧳 Final Travel Tip
Spending money on St Helena isn’t as straightforward as in other destinations — but with just a little planning, it’s easy to navigate. The Tourist Card is a game-changer, and having some cash as backup ensures you’re covered no matter where your island adventure takes you.
So pack your bags, load your card, and don’t forget to bring a few crisp notes — because paradise doesn’t always take plastic.
📲 For more guides, tips, and updates on traveling to St Helena and beyond, follow me on Instagram @TravelWithCorky and check out more blog posts here
